I do exactly the same thing as "downtheroad." I decrease the length of the cable based on the specific circumstances of the CG. And even though most of the CGs I have been to have leash length limits, I have never had them bother me with the cable being longer than the leash length limit. But I consider myself a very conscientious dog owner. If my dog is barking, I stop everything I am doing to quiet him down by command. If I sense a neighbor is bothered by him in anyway, I ask. Being proactive and solving potential issues before they become problematic is the key. If the lead is some long that it allows the dog to wonder out in the walk way or driveway, I think you are asking for problems.